The Nation Newspaper

Category: Featured

  • Edun: Fed Govt attracting foreign investments

    Edun: Fed Govt attracting foreign investments

    • Minister at Lagos firm’s facility expansion

    The investment of over $20million into PepsiCo’s expanded snacks manufacturing facility –Cheetos in Lagos is evidence that the Federal Government’s bold economic reforms are beginning to  yield results, Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun said yesterday.

     He noted that measures such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market, and market-based pricing, though difficult, had restored transparency, improved liquidity, and stabilized Nigeria’s macroeconomic environment.

    Edun spoke  during the  inauguration of the $20 million facility,  a project powered by global food and beverage giant PepsiCo.

    The opening of the facility marked the  launch of Cheetos – one of PepsiCo’s most popular snack brands globally – in the Nigerian market, produced locally in two exciting flavours: Cheese and Coconut.

    The arrival of Cheetos reinforced PepsiCo’s commitment to strengthening its growing snack portfolio in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria, and reinforcing its commitment to localising food production, creating jobs, and building resilient supply chains.

    The new factory, developed in partnership with global smart logistics solutions provider DP World, is a major step towards sustainable industrialisation and regional export competitiveness for Nigeria.

    The partnership marked a significant milestone in fostering Nigeria’s industrial growth, enabling more efficient supply chains, and supporting government’s ambition to build a resilient, $1 trillion economy.

    According to Edun, the Federal Government’s  policies have saved revenues equivalent to five per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), funds that are now being channeled into infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

    “With GDP projected to grow by five per cent, we are seeing real results from our pillars of reform – diversification, industrialisation, and job creation,” the Minister stated, adding: “We are driving to stabilize our economy and unlock sustainable growth.”

    He said: “By sourcing locally and creating jobs, this investment brings to life President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of a stronger, more inclusive economy.

    “Producing Cheetos not only for Nigeria but for West Africa highlights our nation’s role as a regional hub for manufacturing, supported by ongoing progress in technology and digitalization.”

    According to Edun, over 90 per cent of PepsiCo’s raw materials are sourced locally from local partners, including Northern Nigeria Flour Mills, Grand Cereals, and Babban Gona.

    Describing this strategy as “The road to salvation,” he said it showed that Nigeria is shifting from an import-dependent market to a competitive production hub under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    Edun went on:: “That is the road to sustainable industrialisation. When global brands choose to invest locally and source raw materials from Nigerian farmers and suppliers, it builds resilience, creates jobs, and unlocks export opportunities. Nigeria is becoming a competitive production hub, not just a consumption market.”

    He assured PepsiCo, DP World, and their partners of continued government support, noting that “the more profit investors make, the more tax revenues government receives for critical infrastructure and social services — it is a virtuous circle.”

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Bada Ambrose, described the PepsiCo-DP World partnership as transformative for Lagos and indeed, Nigeria.

    He said the impact of the partnership between the two global giants will be far-reaching, as it will stimulate job creation across multiple sectors of the economy while enhancing trade logistics.

    PepsiCo Nigeria’s General Manager, Felix Enwemadu, explained that the company has been part of the Nigerian economy for more than three decades, with its food division stepping up investment since 2018.

    He said the new Oshodi plant would produce three flavors of the iconic Cheetos brand — coconut, sour cream, and cheese — while sourcing 90 per cent of raw materials locally, including corn grits and flour.

    He also highlighted PepsiCo’s social investment initiatives, including a clean water and hygiene program that has reached over 54,000 people in Nigerian communities.

    The Managing Director of FMCL Nigeria, DP World, Ajit Nair, said Nigeria is PepsiCo’s most integrated market, with DP World spanning the full value chain from manufacturing to distribution.

    “This marks the third PepsiCo facility we operate—an achievement that reflects the strength of our partnership, built on trust, performance, and shared purpose. Through AAVA Brands and FMC Nigeria, we are proud to enable PepsiCo’s growth strategy in West Africa.”

    Read Also: Edun, Cardoso meet to strengthen fiscal, monetary policies synergy

    He added that the Lagos plant was designed not just for Nigeria but for West Africa and beyond.

     “This is not just about producing for the local market. It is about positioning Nigeria as a hub for exports under AfCFTA. That is the opportunity we see, and that is the future we are building towards,” Nair said.

    Representatives of DP World described Nigeria as a key market where their operations integrate manufacturing and distribution. They noted that the Oshodi facility was the third project undertaken with PepsiCo in Nigeria, reflecting a strong partnership built on trust and shared values.

    They assured stakeholders that DP World would continue to invest in logistics infrastructure to ensure efficient and sustainable supply chain operations in support of PepsiCo’s expansion in West Africa.

    The event concluded with a factory tour showcasing PepsiCo’s state-of-the-art production lines, followed by a partnership session with key stakeholders.

  • 13million social media accounts shut down

    13million social media accounts shut down

    • Offensive content triggers action

    Leading global platforms Google, Microsoft and TikTok have shut down and deactivated more than 13 million social media accounts.

    Also taken down were 58.9 million contents considered as obscene.

    The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) said the measures were in line with Nigeria’s Code of Practice for online platforms. The Code highlighted efforts by social media platforms to mitigate online harm.

    In a statement yesterday by its Corporate Communications/ Media Relations Director, Hajiya Hadiza Umar, the NITDA said 13,597,057 accounts have been shut down for posting offensive contents and violating the code of practice guiding social media usage.

    The statement was jointly issued by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the NITDA and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC).

    The accounts, the statement noted, were said to have breached the rules guiding platforms such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).

    Hajiya Umar said the government’s actions were contained in the 2024 Code of Practice Compliance Report submitted by promoters of interactive computer service platforms such as Google, Microsoft and Tik Tok.

    Commending Google, Microsoft and TikTok for their continued compliance with the Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms/Internet Intermediaries, Umar noted that there were 754, 629 “registered complaint.”

    She said that 420,439 contents were removed but re-uploaded following appeals by users.

    The statement reads: “The compliance reports provide valuable insights into the platforms’ efforts to address user safety concerns in line with the Code of Practice and the platforms’ community guidelines.

    “The submission of these reports marks a significant step towards fostering a safer and responsible digital environment for Nigerian users.

    “It also demonstrates the platforms’ commitment to ensuring a secure and trustworthy online environment for all.”

    Read Also: ‘Nigerian visa applicants to show five years social media activity’

    “This achievement reflects the provisions of the Code of Practice, which mandates that large service platforms are registered in Nigeria and comply with relevant laws including the fulfillment of their tax obligation, while reinforcing the commitment to online safety for Nigerians.

    “While NITDA acknowledges these commendable efforts, we emphasize that building a safer digital space requires sustained collaboration and engagement among all stakeholders.

    “We remain committed to working with industry players, civil society, and regulatory partners to further strengthen user safety measures, enhance digital literacy, and promote trust and transparency in Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.”

  • JUST IN: Nigeria Consul-General in Cameroon Coker dies

    JUST IN: Nigeria Consul-General in Cameroon Coker dies

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday announced the sudden death of Ambassador Taofik Obasanjo Coker, the Consul General of Nigeria in Buea, Republic of Cameroon.

    Coker, according to a statement by the Ministry Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, passed on after a brief illness on Saturday, August 16.

    He described Ambassador Coker as a hardworking and dedicated career diplomat who served Nigeria with distinction, commitment and professionalism in different capacities.

    Read Also: Ekiti monarch Alara of Aramoko dies at 82

    “His untimely death, therefore, is a great loss to the diplomatic community and the nation at large.

    “Prior to his appointment and assumption of duty as Consul-General of Nigeria, in Buea, he served Nigeria meritoriously in our Missions in Conakry, Guinea and Shanghai, China.

    “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs extends its heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, colleagues and friends at this difficult time and prays for the peaceful repose of his soul,” the statement reads in part.  

  • Olubadan: Oyo govt fixes Sept 26 for Ladoja’s coronation

    Olubadan: Oyo govt fixes Sept 26 for Ladoja’s coronation

    Barring last minute change, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has approved September 26, for the coronation of Oba Rasidi Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan.

    The day was chosen after a meeting between the governor and the former governor which held at the Ondo Street Bodija residence of the monarch.

    Read Also: Olubadan: Ladoja, kingmakers meet, deliberate on installation process

    It is the first time the governor is visiting the monarch since his (Ladoja) return to Ibadan.

    A former President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Bayo Oyero will be the Chairman of the Coronation Committee. 

    Details shortly…

  • Govs move to attract more Foreign Direct Investments

    Govs move to attract more Foreign Direct Investments

    • ‘Africa’s business interest steadily growing’
    • •NGF unveils Investopedia

    Despite the huge potential and intensified efforts at wooing investors, the inflow of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is low, governors lamented yesterday.

    Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), AbdulRahaman AbdulRazaq, said that while Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy, endowed with abundant human and natural resources, its FDI inflows in the last decade have averaged only USD 2 billion annually, which is less than 0.5 per cent of GDP.

    He spoke in Abuja at the unveiling of NGF’s Investopedia –  a compendium of investment opportunities in the 36 states.

    The Kwara State Governor was represented by his Nasarawa State counterpart, Abdullahi Sule.

    The governors drew attention to untapped investment opportunities across the states.

    They urged potential investors to unlock them for the nation’s prosperity.

    According to them, the sub-national units are open, credible and ready to support investment prospecting beyond oil and gas and telecommunications sectors.

    Noting that the vast investment potentials at the sub-national level have been underexplored before now, he said it was time to reverse the trend.

    The NGF chair pointed out that the few foreign investments attracted are mostly concentrated in oil and gas, telecommunications, real estate, and agriculture.

    He said that although these investments are important, the FDIs have not reached the depth or breadth required to catalyse true sub-national transformation.

    Conversely, Abdulrazaq added: “At the same time, African Direct Investment (ADI) into Nigeria has been steadily growing, with regional investors from South Africa, Morocco, Egypt, and Ghana expanding into sectors such as banking, fintech, agribusiness, and infrastructure.

    “This intra-African capital is particularly important under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), as it signals a growing confidence among African partners in Nigeria’s markets and opportunities.

    “Yet, despite these inflows, the annual infrastructure financing gap for Nigeria is estimated at USD 100 billion — a gap that states bear the heaviest responsibility to bridge. Public budgets alone cannot solve this.

    “To unlock prosperity, we must mobilise both global and African capital to finance projects that create jobs, modernise infrastructure, and drive inclusive growth.

    “This is the purpose of the NGF Investopedia: to serve as a one-stop shop for investors, providing credible, transparent, and curated pipelines of projects across all 36 states.

    “It is not just a catalogue – it is an entry point, showing investors not only where to invest, but also how to invest in Nigeria with confidence.

    “This vision would not be possible without the partnership of our sponsors and allies: Afreximbank, which will deploy innovative financial instruments to move state projects from pipeline to bankability and financial closure.”

    Read Also: Foreign Direct Investments will increase in Nigeria – Umana

    He continued: “The UNDP will support our states in building the institutional capacity needed to sustain credible investment pipelines.

    “The Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) will pool post-launch resources to reinforce investor confidence and unlock blended finance opportunities.

    “Together, these partnerships ensure that Investopedia is not just a publication, but a living platform that will drive investment into our states in the years ahead.

    “Our vision is clear: to position Nigeria’s states as credible, competitive destinations for capital, and to unlock prosperity for millions of our people.

    “When an investor builds a road, funds an agro-processing facility, finances renewable energy, or supports ICT infrastructure, the benefits extend beyond financial returns — they create jobs, improve livelihoods, and drive sustainable development.

    “To our distinguished investors, both here in Nigeria, across Africa, and globally, I extend this invitation: partner with Nigeria’s states.

    “The opportunities are vast, the commitment is firm, and the time is now.

    “With the NGF Investopedia, backed by strong partnerships and the NGF Fund, we are sending a clear signal: Nigeria’s subnationals are open, credible, and investment-ready.

    “Together, we can bridge the infrastructure gap and unlock a new era of prosperity for our people.”

    Before reading the NGF Chair’s speech, Sule drew attention to the investment opportunities in oil and gas, mining and the agriculture sectors in the country.

    He said: “In Nigeria, the prospects are enormous. The prospects are not only in oil and gas, but also in agriculture and mining.

    “This opportunity has opened up something for us, as Nigerians, to be able to start somewhere.”

    Recalling his experience as a worker in an oil and gas company in the United States, the Nasarawa governor said the sector in Nigeria, particularly the offshore, was still very much underexplored.

    He added: “If you look at the Benue, Calabar, going to Gombe, through Nasarawa, Plateau, all the way to Lake Chad Basin, the opportunities there are not even yet explored at all.

    “The Anambra Basin is unexplored. If you look at the Benin Basin, it is there. All of them are still underexplored.

    “If Nigeria explores all these areas, we will have another Saudi Arabia. The reason is that most of these big fields in Nigeria – the Obonga, the Agbani –  are all in the deep water. So, nothing is being explored in the deep ocean.

    “But today, there are some discoveries – in Gombe, for instance, the NNPC has already drilled five wells approximately; in Nasarawa, they drilled one, in Lake Chad, they drilled two.”

    Sule advised potential investors in oil and gas to look in those directions.

    He also said that every state has potential for mining, which should be tapped.

    Citing Nasarawa as an example, Sule added: “What we did in Nasarawa State was to come up with what we called an Executive Order to say that anybody who is mining in Nasarawa must also process in Nasarawa State.

    “By doing that, Nasarawa State is now home to the biggest lithium processing plant in Nigeria, and we are waiting for Mr. President to return and commission the next lithium processing plant, which will be, indeed, the biggest in Africa with 6000 tons per day.”

    The governor also spoke on the investment opportunities in the agriculture sector across the country.

    He said: “There is no better time than now. The reform agenda of Mr. President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for which we are not giving him enough credit, has made more resources available in the hands of the Federal Government, the states and the local governments.

    “And, for us in Nasarawa, we used the resources available to go into PPP. And so, we are not just looking for investors; we are looking for partners so that we can also invest.”

    The NGF Director-General, Abdulateef Shittu, explained that Investopedia will simplify investor access by consolidating credible projects into one gateway.

    He said it will also provide confidence through due diligence and transparent presentation of opportunities.

    Shittu said the initiative would also mobilise partnerships that go beyond financing to include technical support, capacity-building, and risk mitigation.

    He added: “This is why today matters. We are no longer just discussing potential, but presenting bankable pathways for global, African, and domestic capital to flow into our states.

    “The prosperity that will follow — in jobs, infrastructure, and inclusive growth – will stand as a legacy for this generation of governors and leaders.”

  • Nigeria to demand reform of global financial system

    Nigeria to demand reform of global financial system

    • ‘We’re in Japan to seal opportunities’

    Nigeria will leverage the ongoing Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama, Japan, to deepen diplomatic and economic partnerships with Japan and African nations participating in the summit.

    Foreign Affairs Minister  Yusuf Tuggar, who spoke to reporters ahead of today’s commencement of the conference, also said the country would push for reforms in the global financial system.

    Beyond finance, Tuggar explained that Nigeria will expand its $1 billion trade volume with Japan by exploring new areas such as agricultural exports and strengthening collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO).

    He added that with at least 17 African heads of government in attendance, Nigeria would use TICAD   to galvanise support for its bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council and positions in other global institutions, including the International Court of Justice and the International Maritime Organisation.

    “Nigeria must be at the decision-making tables of the world. That is why we are using this platform to lobby for the positions that rightfully strengthen our role in shaping global policies,” the minister said.

    Tuggar said that Nigeria’s participation in TICAD reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening regional integration, expanding trade and positioning Africa for sustainable development.

    He stressed that Nigeria, as one of Africa’s leading economies, has a crucial role in advancing global financial reforms, particularly in the areas of debt rescheduling and restructuring.

    “Unless we have reforms in the global financial architecture, Africa as a whole cannot benefit,” Tuggar said, noting that the presence of global institutions such as the United Nations and World Bank at TICAD underscores the urgency of the debate.

    Read Also: Nigeria end CHAN 2024 with victory over Congo

    The minister explained that Nigeria is drawing lessons from Japan’s post-war economic trajectory, highlighting the “flying geese effect” through which Japanese corporations invested across Asia in the 1960s and 1970s, thereby spurring industrialisation and regional growth.

    “In Nigeria, we seek to replicate this by building an industrial base, creating jobs for our teeming youths, and tackling unemployment,” he said, adding that Tinubu’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms were already showing positive effects.

    The “flying geese effect “  is a model of economic development where a leading nation shifts labour-intensive industries to less developed countries as its economy upgrades to higher value sectors.

    The “follower” countries then repeat the process, creating a cascading effect of industrialisation and technological transfer across a region.

    The model or paradigm postulated by a prominent Japanese economist, Kaname Akamatsu,   often used to analyse the economic growth of East Asian countries,  postulates that as labour costs rise, labour-intensive industries in developed areas lose their comparative advantage and are more likely to relocate to less-developed regions with lower factor prices.  

    Nigeria’ll champion Africa’s future at TICAD9

    The president also reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to play a leading role in shaping Africa’s development agenda.

    In a post on his verified X handle, @officialABAT, last night, the President said the summit, which opened this week, is focused on deepening Africa–Japan ties, attracting sustainable investments, and unlocking innovation to transform the continent’s future.

    The post reads: “Arrived in Tokyo yesterday for the 9th TICAD Summit. This summit is about strengthening Africa–Japan ties, attracting sustainable investments, and unlocking innovation to benefit our people. Nigeria is at the table, not as a bystander, but as a leader shaping solutions for Africa’s future.”

    TICAD, a partnership platform initiated by Japan in 1993, brings together African countries, Japan, international organizations, and development partners to deliberate on strategies for sustainable growth and cooperation.

    The ninth edition in Yokohama has drawn attention to Africa’s role in global economic recovery, with emphasis on innovation-driven solutions, infrastructure expansion, and stronger trade partnerships.

    President Tinubu’s participation underscores Nigeria’s push to consolidate its leadership position in Africa’s economic diplomacy while also seeking fresh opportunities for investment and innovation that will drive national development under his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda (RHA).

    The summit, which main events run from today till Friday, is expected to yield new commitments on trade, technology transfer, energy transition, and climate resilience, with Nigeria set to play a central role in shaping the outcomes.

  • Edun, Cardoso meet to strengthen fiscal, monetary policies synergy

    Edun, Cardoso meet to strengthen fiscal, monetary policies synergy

    • FIRS CEO in attendance

    The Federal Government has spoken of plans to strengthen fiscal and monetary policies to boost the economy.

    Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, met with the Central Bank Governor, Dr. Olayemi Cardoso, yesterday on the steps.

    Also at the meeting held at the CBN Headquarters in Abuja was the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji.

    According to a statement by the ministry via its official X handle, the meeting was designed to sustaining macroeconomic stability, boosting investor confidence, and unlocking private sector-led growth in line with the federal government’s economic reform agenda.

    The statement noted that Mr. Edun stressed the importance of synergy between both arms of economic management.

    “The minister reaffirmed that close alignment between fiscal and monetary policy is critical to consolidating President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, ensuring inflation is contained, revenues are mobilised efficiently, and credit flows effectively to productive sectors,” it said.

    The meeting comes against the backdrop of criticisms that, in the last administration, there was little or no synergy between fiscal and monetary authorities.

    This was said to have led to policy inconsistencies that undermined growth, stifled private sector participation, and heightened macroeconomic challenges.

    Read Also: Edun, Cardoso meet to align fiscal, monetary policies

    With Nigeria witnessing a consistent decline in inflation, relative exchange rate stability, and a need to attract more investment inflows, the latest meeting signals the current administration’s determination to forge closer collaboration among key economic managers.

    Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ambosit Capital Managers, Dr. Wahab Balogun, noted that “the presence of the finance minister, the CBN governor, and the FIRS chairman at the same table suggests a more integrated approach to tackling revenue shortfalls, inflation management, and credit delivery to critical sectors of the economy.”

    While no specific policy measures were announced immediately after the meeting, Dr. Balogun foresees benefits.

    He believes “the discussions will shape upcoming fiscal and monetary strategies, especially as the government continues to push reforms designed to stabilise the economy and stimulate growth.”

  • Why Babachir Lawal is attacking Tinubu – Wike

    Why Babachir Lawal is attacking Tinubu – Wike

    Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike on Tuesday explained why former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal is attacking President Bola Tinubu.

    Wike said Lawal, expressed anger after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu picked Kashim Shettima as his running mate in 2023.

    The Minister who spoke as a guest on Tuesday’s edition of Channels Television Politics Today programme, monitored by our correspondent, defended Tinubu against claims that his administration is unapproachable, stressing that the President cannot personally attend to everyone.

    He maintained governance involves teamwork and Nigerians should engage Ministers and presidential Special Advisers rather than expect direct access to the President.

    Wike said Lawal visited him in his Port Harcourt residence shortly after the announcement was made.

    According to him, Lawal was visibly upset because he had expected Tinubu to choose him as vice president.

    Read Also: Wike starts another round of project commissioning in FCT

    “After President Tinubu chose Shettima as his VP, Babachir Lawal came to my house in Port Harcourt. He was angry because he thought the president would pick him as vice president,” Wike said.

    The revelation comes days after Lawal, in a separate appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, claimed he would not have lasted in Tinubu’s cabinet had he been appointed.

    Lawal, a strong critic of the administration, further argued that President Tinubu did not win the 2023 election, insisting that the results available to him at the time showed otherwise.

    When asked if the government was approachable, Wike responded: “Of course.”

    His remarks followed a recent comment by Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), who had described Tinubu and his administration as unapproachable.

    “When you say Mr President is unapproachable, and the government is unapproachable, what do you call a government?” Wike asked.

    “I am the Minister in charge of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Z is a Minister in charge of Interior, Mrs O is a Minister in charge of Trade, Investment and Industry. Must everybody reach Mr President? Is that the way the government runs?

    “If everybody in this country refuses to reach out to ministers or special advisers and just wants to see Mr President, how many people can he attend to at a time? I am a minister, if you have a problem regarding the activities in the FCT, have you tried to reach out to the FCT minister?” he asked.

    Wike argued that the government deserves commendation for recent successes in the fight against terrorism.

    He disclosed that foreign governments such as the United States and United Kingdom have praised Nigeria’s security agencies for their operations.

    “For some time now, look at the steps the government has been taking. For the first time, look at the United States, United Kingdom commending the Nigerian government.

    “Terrorists have been looking for years to destroy our efforts but our security agencies were able to penetrate them. And America and the UK commended us more than anything,” Wike said.

    The Minister acknowledged that Nigerians are enduring tough times due to reforms such as fuel subsidy removal, but maintained that the sacrifices are necessary.

    According to him, while petrol prices initially surged after subsidy removal, they have “started coming down a bit,” showing signs of market adjustment.

    He stressed rural and urban residents are affected by the state of the economy, dismissing claims that only people in villages bear the brunt of hardship.

    “You cannot say only those living in rural areas are suffering. Those in the city also feel the pain when the economy is bad. Every Nigerian is entitled to have a good living,” he said.

    Wike also responded to opposition voices, including his longtime political rival and former Rivers Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, who has criticised Tinubu’s administration.

    He accused Amaechi of lacking the moral authority to speak on corruption, citing unresolved issues from his time as governor.

    According to him: “A man comes to tell you he will solve the issue of corruption in one month. But this same man closed down the State High Court for almost two years. Can such a man really fight corruption?”

    The Minister referenced judicial inquiries which he said indicted Amaechi.

    “He was really indicted. He went to court. The court said, yes, the panel was right. He went to the Court of Appeal. The Court of Appeal said the panel was right. He went to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court affirmed the judgment,” he said.

    The former Rivers gyovernor further alleged that Amaechi mismanaged several projects, including the state’s monorail and other investments, while questioning the transparency of certain financial dealings under his administration.

    “Our gas provider, 380 million US dollars, he sold it to the Sahara. Where is the money? Which account did he pay to? He spent 30 million US dollars on Kalibu Heart Hospital. Where is the foundation of the hospital? He spent N74 billion on the monorail. Where is the monorail?” Wike stated.

    The Minister said the presidential ambition of Rotimi Amaechi is dead on arrival.

    Wike said Nigerians won’t give Amaechi a chance in the 2027 election.

    Amaechi, a member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) opposition coalition determined to wrest power from President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 poll, came second after in the 2022 APC presidential primary won by ex-Lagos governor Tinubu.

    In 2025, Amaechi dumped the APC and moved to the ADC, seeking the party’s 2027 presidential ticket.

    However, Wike, who incidentally shared a common history with Amaechi as former Rivers Governor, said his predecessor won’t get the ADC ticket for the 2027 poll.

    The FCT minister said: “He (Amaechi) knows he won’t get the ticket. I read that he said he knows the weaknesses of the President, so he knows how to defeat him but he also knew the weaknesses of the President in 2022 when the president defeated him mercilessly in the primary.

  • JUST IN: All electronic devices must be switched off during takeoff, landing – NCAA

    JUST IN: All electronic devices must be switched off during takeoff, landing – NCAA

    The Director-General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo has directed that all phones and other electronic devices must be switched off during critical stages of flights.

    The NCAA DG also directed all domestic airline operators to amend their operations manuals to reflect the new directive and submit them for immediate approval.

    Najomo, however, noted that the NCAA remains alert to future review of the requirement as aircraft technological and safety enhancement improves and risk assessment evolves.

    He noted that the safety of the aviation system is the safety of the country.

    To tackle all forms of security threats at the airports, the DG said, “We are going to do a mock response next week. We are going to carry it out in Lagos and Abuja, and if you think in your mind you are going to come and be unruly passengers, we’re waiting for you.

    “Aviation security personnel and law enforcement must be reinforced with training, professionalism, and clearly defined rules of engagement. All stakeholders, from airlines to intelligence partners, must work without silos to share threat intelligence and coordinate rapid response.

    “We are part of the shift in the behaviour of the travelling public, who should see airlines as transactional partners rather than foes. To avoid ambiguity and perceived confusion, all mobile phones, I repeat, all mobile phones and other portable electronic devices should be switched off during at least the critical phase of flight on all Nigerian airlines. There’s nothing like flight mode any longer. They must be switched off.

    “Nigerian airline operators are therefore required to amend their operations manual to reflect this requirement and submit it to the NCAA for approval. We remain alert to future review of this requirement as Aircraft Technological and Safety Enhancement Improved Risk Assessment evolves.

    “As always, it remains the responsibility of the crew to communicate this requirement to passengers, and the responsibility of the passengers to comply with crew instructions. It’s all there in the manual that we approved from the CA”.

    He noted that unruly acts in the aviation sector cannot be eradicated, adding that it can be managed through effective collaboration by all stakeholders.

    Read Also: NCAA grants approval to Gateway Airport to begin commercial flights

    “The reality is that unruly acts can never be eliminated totally. So, we must be ready to manage and resolve these incidents, and if and when they occur, in line with the standard protocols, professionally and responsibly.

    The Vice Chairman Senate Committee on Aviation, Sen. Peter Jiya, attributed the challenges in the aviation sector to indiscipline and lack of professionalism.

    He said, “Little sentiments here and there have not allowed us to do the needful. We are not to share blame, but we must know that we have a responsibility to the passengers, and we must do it without fear or favour.

    “We have enough rules and regulations; what is left is their implementation professionally, and other aviation agencies must work to complement the NCAA.

    The Director, Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, NCAA, Michael Achimugu, urged any aggrieved passenger to send their complaints to the NCAA for resolution.

  • Owo Catholic church attackers have link with foreign terrorist groups, DSS tells court

    Owo Catholic church attackers have link with foreign terrorist groups, DSS tells court

    • …opposes defendants’ bail request 
    • …court okays shielding of prosecution witnesses’ identity 

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has cautioned a Federal High Court in Abuja against granting bail to the five men being prosecuted over their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022 attack at St. Francs Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State in view of their alleged link with foreign terrorist groups.

    The DSS, in a counter-affidavit to the defendants’ bail application, also raised concern about their capacity to interfere with prosecution’s witnesses if granted bail in view their alleged antecedent and propensity for violence.

    The five are: Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza (25 years), Al Qasim Idris (20 years), Jamiu Abdulmalik (26 years), Abdulhaleem Idris (25 years) and Momoh Otuho Abubakar (47 years).

    The five defendants were arraigned on August 11 on a nine-count terrorism charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/301/2025 filed by the DSS).

    In the counter-affidavit, the DSS stated that the offences for which the defendants are standing trial are very serious, with capital punishment if convicted. 

    It added that the defendants are standing trial for acts of terrorism, which led to the death of about 40 persons and caused grievous injury to over 100 worshipers at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State on 5th June, 2022. 

    The DSS said: “There is very high likelihood of defendants evading trial in view of their connection to foreign fighters linked to Al-Shabab terrorist group.

    “The defendants’ accomplices are still at large and have been making frantic efforts to monitor their trial, intimidate witnesses and free the defendants from lawful custody.” 

    The DSS disclosed that it was “currently investigating the leads with a view to apprehending those individuals, planning to intimidate witnesses and compromise the trial in the interest of the applicants. 

    “The prosecution witnesses have expressed fears of attacks by defendants’ cohorts and have stated that they will not attend court sessions except their fears were allayed. 

    “This necessitated the filing of an ex-parte application for witness protection. 

    “The prosecution has demonstrated readiness for speedy trial of the substantive charge. That defendants have not presented any evidence to show that they have credible sureties. 

    “It will not be in the interest of justice and security of prosecution witnesses to grant the application for bail,” the DSS said.

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    Defence lawyer, Abdullahi Mohammad had, while moving the bail application on Tuesday, noted that his client’s have been in custody since they were arrested in 2022.

    Mohammad said his clients were ready to present credible and reliable sureties to demonstrate their willingness to stand trial.

    Prosecuting lawyer, Dr. Calistus Eze urged the court to reject the bail application for being unmeritorious.

    Eze stated that there are ongoing threats to would be witnesses of the prosecution, which the defence lawyer is aware of.

    After taking arguments from both lawyers, Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned till September 10 for ruling on the bail application.

    Earlier at the commencement of proceedings, Eze told the court that although the case was scheduled for Tuesday for the prosecution to open its case, it will not be able to proceed because the DSS has handed the case to a senior lawyer, Ayodeji Adedipe (SAN) to lead the prosecuting team.

    Eze prayed the court for an adjornment to a later date before which the DSS would have processed the necessary fiat from the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to enable Adedipe to fully take over the handling of the case.

    Mohammad did not object to Eze’s request for an adjornment. He also did not object to another application by Eze, seeking the protection of the identity and other personal particulars of the prosecution’s witnesses.

    In the application, the prosecution prayed the court to issue an order to protect the identity and other personal particulars of the prosecution witnesses and an order allowing the prosecution witnesses to testify while hooded and veiled off from the view of all other individuals except the counsel on both sides. 

    The prosecution also urged the court to issue an order to prevent the mentioning of the real names of prosecution’s witnesses in its orders, judgments or records which are acces:ibie to the public, and an order allowing witnesses should be identified with a combination of some alphabets.

    In a brief ruling, Justice Nwite granted the application.

    While exiting the court, Mohammed told journalists that although he has not had the opportunity to see his clients in custody, he was told by them that they were well attended to.